Lower red cell transfusion rates with use of tranexamic acid in single-stage bilateral total knee arthroplasty: a retrospective audit

Muhammad Aziz,, Aga Khan University
Salman Bin Mahmood, Aga Khan University
Riaz Hussain Lakdawala, Aga Khan University
Tashfeen Ahmad, Aga Khan University

Abstract

Abstract

Bilateral total knee arthroplasty (BTKA) patients may require blood transfusion which has its risks. Anti-fibrinolytic drugs such as aprotinin, aminocaproic acid and tranexamic acid (TXA) have reduced transfusion requirements in major surgery. This retrospective audit was performed to assess effectiveness of TXA in reducing blood transfusion rate in single-stage sequential BTKA cases operated by a single surgeon. Records of 91 patients given TXA and 80 controls who were operated before 2012 and not given TXA were reviewed. TXA was given 15mg/kg intravenously (IV) before tourniquet deflation and 3 hours postoperatively.Blood transfusion was done in 9(10%) patients in the TXA group compared to 20(25%)in the control group (p